Ultimate Backpacking List: What to Bring and What to Leave Behind
If you’re hitting the road for two weeks or six months, packing smart can make or break your backpacking adventure. When every ounce matters and every inch of space counts, knowing what to bring, and what not to, is just as important as booking that flight.
This guide covers everything you need to pack for a successful trip and what you’re better off leaving behind. Let’s keep it light, practical, and totally wander-ready.
What to Pack: The Backpacker Must-Haves
The Bag Itself
Backpack (40–50 liters max) – Big enough to fit the essentials, small enough to stay mobile.
Daypack or small crossbody bag – For exploring cities, hikes, and day trips.
Packing cubes or compression bags – To organize like a pro, and save space in your pack.
Clothing: The Essentials (Not Your Whole Closet)
It depends on where you’re going. This is somewhat self-explanatory, except, my biggest peace of advice is to pack what will make YOU comfortable. Don’t be influenced to leave behind a piece of clothing that you’ll regret later. However, the good news is, if you forget something, you can always go shopping while you’re away, and that way it becomes a souvenir!
3–5 T-shirts or tanks (quick-dry preferred)
1 long-sleeve layer (for cold nights or sun protection)
1 hoodie, fleece, or light sweater
1 rain jacket or windbreaker (lightweight and packable)
2–3 pairs of shorts
1–2 pairs of pants (hiking pants, joggers, or leggings)
7-8 pairs of underwear
3–5 pairs of socks (add a pair of wool socks for colder climates)
1 swimsuit
1 pair of flip-flops (showers/beach)
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
Optional: 1-2 outfit for going out (compact and easy to dress up)
Pro Tip: Think layers and neutrals — the goal is to re-wear and mix-match!
Toiletries & Hygiene
Hanging toiletry bag (space-saving and hostel-friendly)
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Shampoo & body wash (solid bars or travel-size bottles)
Razor
Deodorant
Comb or travel hairbrush
Quick-dry towel
Nail clippers
Tweezers
Small pack of tissues
Hand sanitizer
Women, pack menstrual products (bring extras if heading to less-accessible areas)
Pro Tip: Wait to purchase your sunscreen and bug spray on your trip. No sense in packing it if you’re going to buy and use it up during your trip. If you forget anything, luckily, you can purchase any of these toiletries at a drug store or convenience store. Keep in mind, the products you’re comfortable using back home may not be available abroad, therefore, stock up on products that you can’t live without.
Tech & Travel Accessories
1-2 Phone + chargers
Power bank (portable charger)
Universal adapter
Headphones
Camera or GoPro (optional)
Flashlight or headlamp
Lock for lockers
Copies of passport/ID (digital + paper)
Pro Tip: For comfort and safety, I always purchase the correct plug adapter or bring my universal adapter wherever I go. This eliminates any unnecessary stress upon arrival to track down a tech store that’s open and sells what you need. You’re best off packing the correct plug so you always have a way of charging your phone. Good news, most hostels offer a USB plug-in installed in bedrooms and common areas, which eliminates any stress of not having the right country plug.
Laundry & Extras: For Long-Extended Wanderers
Laundry bag
Travel clothesline + detergent sheets
Reusable water bottle or filtered water bottle
Reusable shopping bag
Reusable cutlery
Reusable Ziplock bags
Snacks (protein bars, nuts, instant noodles)
Passport + travel insurance info
Small notebook/journal
Travel-Smart Add-ons
First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, painkillers, stomach meds, allergy meds)
Sleep mask + earplugs (hostel essential!)
Travel pillow
Emergency cash (in multiple currencies if needed)
Keep in mind: every item you pack adds weight you’ll carry—literally. You can always drop things along the way, but pack smart and skip anything you don’t truly need.
Photo throwback: Western Italy, November 2021 — a surprise 40-minute hike to my hotel wasn’t on the itinerary, but thankfully, I packed light and right!
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
What Not to Pack: Save the Space & Sanity
Too Many Clothes
You don’t need 10 shirts or multiple pairs of jeans. You will absolutely rewear things or pick-up new items on your travels — and laundry is always an option.
Full-Size Toiletries & Makeup
Take travel sizes or solid versions. Your backpack has limited real estate, and you can always pick up more supplies upon arrival.
Fancy Shoes or Heels
Unless you’re attending a wedding abroad (and even then, reconsider), leave them.
Bulky Towels
Go for a microfiber towel — dries fast, takes up almost no space.
Hair Dryers or Straighteners
Most hostels have hairdryers, and they’re usually unnecessary for laid-back travel styles.
Multiple Books
Heavy, bulky, and you’ll probably only get through one. Opt for an e-reader or trade books along the way.
“What If” Gear
Don’t pack for every possible scenario. You’ll find what you need when you need it — local shops, markets, and fellow travelers often save the day.
Final Thoughts: Pack Light, Travel Far
Packing is about freedom, not fear. Bring what you need to stay clean, safe, and happy — and leave room for flexibility, spontaneity, and souvenirs.
Rule of thumb? Lay everything out before you pack. Then take half the clothes and double the cash.
PS: If you’re not sure whether to bring something… you probably don’t need it :)
- Kevin
